Audi A6 vs Hyundai Elantra

The 2019 Audi A6, with its refined design, drew inspiration from the Prologue Concept, yet retained the unmistakable Audi identity. It featured a wider single-frame grille, subtle fender swells reminiscent of the original Audi Quattro, and innovative LED lighting with animated sequences, enhancing its visual appeal, especially at night. The car's design was further accentuated by a short front overhang, a rakish roofline, and horizontal themes for the taillights and exhaust outlets, maintaining a connection to its predecessors. The A6's S-line styling details added a sporty touch, with prices ranging from $58,900 to $85,245, excluding destination charges. The Prestige trim, with its luxurious features and sporty enhancements, was priced at $75,140, including destination.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra maintained its bold restyle from 2019, showcasing a geometric-influenced design that set the stage for the 2021 model's angular styling. Available in six trims, the Elantra's pricing ranged from $19,300 to $24,150, with the Limited test vehicle priced at $27,630, including destination. The Elantra's black paint highlighted its angular design elements, creating a striking contrast with chrome detailing. Inside, the Elantra's updated interior featured silver trim accents, enhancing its upscale appearance, though hard plastics reminded occupants of its mainstream compact car status.

The 2019 Audi A6 delivered an exhilarating driving experience, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 7-speed S tronic transmission and Quattro Ultra AWD, enabled the A6 to accelerate to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds. The A6's mild hybrid system, featuring a 48-volt electrical system, improved fuel efficiency by capturing energy during coasting and braking. Despite an EPA rating of 25 mpg, real-world testing yielded 22.9 mpg. The A6's adaptive damping suspension and progressive steering contributed to its dynamic handling, though the brake pedal felt numb in urban settings.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter engine paired with a new CVT, which improved fuel efficiency by 2 mpg in combined driving. The Elantra Eco featured a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with 128 horsepower and a 7-speed DCT, achieving 36 mpg in combined driving. The Elantra Sport, with a 1.6-liter turbo engine producing 201 horsepower, offered a more engaging driving experience with its independent rear suspension. However, the standard Elantra's torsion beam axle detracted from ride quality, and real-world fuel economy fell short of expectations, averaging 29.3 mpg.

The 2019 Audi A6's interior offered a tailored fit with 18-way multi-contour front seats and massage programs, though space was limited. The Prestige trim included 4-zone climate control and heated rear seats, while interior storage was minimal. The trunk, housing the 48-volt battery, provided 13.7 cubic feet of space, sufficient for a family road trip with creative packing.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra, known for its spaciousness among compact cars, comfortably accommodated four adults. The Limited trim featured power driver’s seat adjustment, leather upholstery, and a sliding center console armrest. Dual-zone climate control with a Clean Air ionizer was standard, though rear passengers lacked air conditioning vents. The Elantra's trunk offered 14.4 cubic feet of space, comparable to some midsize sedans, with a convenient interior grab handle for easy closure.

The 2019 Audi A6 excelled in technology, featuring Audi’s MMI with dual touchscreen displays, haptic feedback, and lush graphics. The navigation system used Google Earth imagery, and the handwriting recognition system was outstanding. Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation and Bang & Olufsen sound systems further enhanced the tech experience, making physical buttons unnecessary.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra came equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, with screen sizes varying by trim. The Limited trim included wireless smartphone charging and a premium Infinity sound system. The Ultimate Package added an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and Blue Link services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and knobs for easy operation, and the Infinity sound system impressed for its class.

The 2019 Audi A6 offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and collision-avoidance systems, with advanced features available on Premium Plus and Prestige trims. Pre Sense systems, adaptive cruise control, active lane assist, and intersection assistant were among the highlights. Prestige trim added HD Matrix LED headlights, though the optional night-vision assistant was not included in the test car.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra featured Hyundai Smart Sense as standard, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS with full LED headlights and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though rear-door intrusion was noted in side-impact tests.